This distant continent of Australia is known as the paradise of reptiles.
Australia's iconic reptile Umbrella Lizard
It is sparsely populated, the climate is harsh, and the endless desert accounts for 44% of the total area of the continent.
There are only two rainfalls per year on average, and as soon as the raindrops fall to the ground, most of the rain evaporates under the action of high temperatures.
Australian desert scenery
Due to the long-term weathering of iron, the sand and gravel surface is coated with a layer of iron oxide, so these deserts are red. Strolling here is like being on Mars.
The desolate crimson surface of Mars
Therefore, only the most tenacious beings can survive here, and today our protagonist is a reptile that resembles an armored monster, the spiny lizard.
"Heavily armed" spiny lizard
Although they look like the ultimate boss in an animated story, they are actually about the size of a mouse, and they can even be placed on the palm of their hands to examine them carefully.
The host interacts intimately with the spiny lizard
<h1>Spiny Lizard Survival Strategy (1): Heavily armed</h1>
Spiny lizards are covered with spikes all over their bodies, and when they encounter predators, they also lower their heads and aim the large spikes on their heads at their enemies. This seamless means of defense, predators see and worry, simply can not bite!
<h1>Spiny Lizard Survival Strategy (2): Guess where I am</h1>
The body color of the spiny lizard can be switched between red, yellow and brown, and this mechanism helps them to blend perfectly into the vast desert, making it difficult for predators to find them, and adding a guarantee of survival!
The color of the discolored spiny lizard is very close to the environment
What's even more incredible is that the spiny lizard also has an ultimate survival skill, which is definitely an eye-opener!
<h1>Spiny Lizard Survival Strategy (3): Drinking water has a good trick</h1>
The heartland of Australia's desert is hot and arid, and the biggest problem faced by various organisms is to ingest water. However, the spiny lizard is an animal that hardly drinks water! It has its own set of "hydration" tips, which are also related to their distinctive skin.
Their needle-like skin, like the needles of a cactus, reduces the loss of moisture.
Spikes are more than just weapons
Not only that, but the skin of its whole body can absorb and store moisture.
Schematic diagram of the microstructure of the skin of the spiny lizard
When there is water on the ground it tramples on, the water can be absorbed into the skin and follow the skin of the whole body all the way to the mouth. Unfinished water can also be stored in the skin in case of emergency.
The spiny lizard's unique way of drinking water
Despite the harsh environment and harsh conditions, the spiny lizard adapted well to all this. Arm yourself with thick "armor", meet the challenge with a unique mechanism, live out wisdom, and live wonderfully!